S002 – Excision of parapharyngeal space lesions (with mobilization of parotid gland)
OHIP Urology Code — DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Excision of parapharyngeal space lesions is a surgical procedure involving the removal of growths or abnormal tissue from the parapharyngeal space, an area deep in the neck. This procedure includes the necessary mobilization of the parotid gland to access and remove the lesion. As a surgical service, the surgeon's fee (suffix A) includes the pre-operative evaluation, the operation itself, and normal post-operative care. Fees for surgical assistant (suffix B) and anaesthesiologist (suffix C) are calculated based on basic units plus time units.
When to Use
- Use S002 for the definitive excision of benign or malignant lesions located within the parapharyngeal space that necessitate formal mobilization of the parotid gland for surgical access.
- Select S002 when the surgical approach requires deep neck dissection and parotid gland retraction to expose the parapharyngeal space, distinguishing it from simpler superficial parotidectomy codes like S010.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill S002 in conjunction with superficial parotidectomy codes (e.g., S010) as the mobilization of the parotid gland is considered an integral component of the S002 procedure.
- Avoid billing a second surgical assistant without prior authorization, as S002 is not on the pre-approved list and requires a formal letter of justification to the Ministry.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly details the mobilization of the parotid gland to justify the use of S002 over less extensive neck lesion excision codes.
- If the procedure is performed on an emergency basis, ensure the start time is clearly documented to support the application of after-hours or night premiums (E409, E410).
Effective: April 1, 2025
S. Digestive System Surgical Procedures
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Digestive System Surgical Procedures
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